5 benefits of Shilajit which make it a herb worth every penny

Nature is magical. In the scenic mountains and rock layers of the Himalayas, a sticky substance develops from slow decomposition of plants, high temperature and pressure. That substance, called Shilajit, happens to be a wonder drug in Ayurveda for promoting rejuvenation.

Shilajit is prescribed to treat fractures, osteoarthritis, spondolysis, chronic bronchitis, nervous disorders, epilepsy, anemia, angina, jaundice, menorrhagia and eczema. It has also been ascribed as a potent aphrodisiac property. It is useful for treating kidney stones, oedema, piles, internal antiseptic, adiposity, to reduce fat and anorevia, according to a research paper by Banaras Hindu University.

This blackish-brown resin-like substance has nearly 85 ionic minerals and contains fulvic acid and humic acid together with many phytochemicals that give it its multi-pronged health benefits.

According to nutritionist Kavita Devgan, Shilajit improves the body’s immunity, boosts brain function and memory and is a diuretic too. It even stengthens sexual and reproductive health, and has been found to helpful for those suffering from anorexia.

“In winter months, it helps improve our circulation and alleviate fatigue,” Devgan tells HealthShots, adding that sourcing it right and taking it at night are the top two things to keep in mind about Shilajit.

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If that’s not enough, studies as well as traditions claim that Shilajit can play a vital role in promoting women’s health, says Ayush Aggarwal, founder and director of Ayurvedic supplements brand Rasayanam.

Let’s take a look at the benefits of Shilajit for women, as pointed out by Aggarwal:

1. Increases energy levels

   Fatigue, tiredness and lethargy are no strangers to women. Women frequently go through a period where they face extreme tiredness, despite starting their day with a strong cup of coffee. It may be enough to get them on their feet, but for some reason tiredness remains. During the women’s menstrual cycle, they lose a lot of nutrients from their bodies. Shilajit helps in boosting energy by producing Adenosine-5′-triphosphate (ATP) in the body and refueling it with energy that keeps them in a good mood and active throughout the day. A scientific research conducted on rats showed that Shilajit reduced the effects of CFS when they were fed for 21 days.

   

2. Skin health

   Investing a lot of money in skin products is no big deal for most women. Wrinkles, dark spots, blemishes, pimples, etc all contribute to insecurities and low-esteem for a lot of women. You tend to buy a lot of chemical-based products that claim to give you satisfying results overnight. The thing about using chemical products is that they may give you the results you need in a short span of time, but sooner your skin will start deteriorating, because of which you’re going to have to turn to the product once again. Shilajit is a natural treatment for all skin types, and has the least side effects. It will give you smoother and supple-looking skin, giving a youthful glow to your skin and preventing most skin problems.

3. Improves fertility

   Women who struggle with irregular menstrual cycles are at risk of developing infertility. Many South Asian women recommend Shilajit to promote healthy reproductive health. Shilajit herb also cleanses and detoxifies the organs by generating oxygen-rich blood and essential antioxidants. It fights free radicals from the body that may be contributing to women’s infertility.

4. Reduces stress

   Shilajit is widely popular for its healing properties that brings inner peace to those who consume it. It helps calm your soul by lowering the production of stress hormones in your body while yielding the oxytocin hormone, that will make you feel more womanly and keep you in a good, cheery and blissful mood.

5. Boosts immunity

It is important that you take good care of your immune health. Viruses and bacteria can enter your body and infect you if your immune system is not strong enough to fight the viruses back. Shilajit plays a vital role in strengthening your immunity and keeping you from falling sick.

Are there any side effects of Shilajit?

Shilajit is a great gift by nature and this rare substance offers incredible health benefits for women. However, a word of caution – original Shilajit is not easy to find nor cheap!

A study in the National Center for Biotechnology Information mentions that shilajit consumption without preliminary purification may lead to risks of intoxication given the presence of mycotoxin, heavy metal ions, polymeric quinones (oxidant agents), and free radicals, among others. Therefore, a purified, ready-for-use preparation for human consumption must be used.

It mentions that several Ayurvedic products including shilajit and other Indian manufactured products commercialized by the Internet may contain detectable heavy metals levels as lead, mercury, and arsenic. So, use it with caution and only after taking due advice from a doctor or Ayurveda expert.